Sutton’s Academy Transformation Trust Further Education (ATTFE) College was proud to mark National Volunteers’ Week 2026, joining organisations across the UK in recognising the invaluable contribution volunteers make to communities every day.

Now in its 42nd year, volunteers’ week ran from June 1 to 7 and provided a national opportunity to celebrate the time, passion and skills that volunteers give.

Running annually since 1984, the campaign highlights the diversity and unity of volunteer work and the vital role it plays in supporting communities across the UK

Throughout the week, ATTFE College ambassadors – its dedicated team of volunteers – were busy across all sites, supporting daily activities as well as helping to plan and deliver a range of engaging events.

A special celebration event where ATTFE volunteers were recognised and thanked for their hard work and dedication last Friday.

placeholder image — A special celebration event where ATTFE volunteers were recognised and thanked for their hard work and dedication last Friday.

Their work included welcoming visitors, supporting learners, assisting with community initiatives and helping create inclusive environments where everyone feels supported, safe and valued.

Volunteers were active across ATTFE’s community hubs at Idlewells Shopping Centre in Sutton and Kirkby town centre, as well as Willetts Court Community Centre on Leamington Estate, Sherwood Observatory and other locations in the area.

Liz Barrett OBE, DL Principal of ATTFE College, said: “Our volunteers truly embody the spirit and values of ATTFE College.

"Their commitment, passion and willingness to give their time make a real difference – not only to our learners and staff, but to the wider community we serve.

Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Veronica Pickering MBS HAC with ATTFE College executive senior leader, Simon Martin, MBE (pictured centre) thanks ATTFE volunteers who were at a function in Kirklington.

"We are incredibly proud of our college ambassadors and deeply grateful for the positive impact they make every single day.”

Linda Smith, volunteers partnership and community lead, added: “Volunteering is at the heart of what we do.

"Our ambassadors bring energy, compassion and creativity, supporting learners, helping to deliver community activities and inspiring others to get involved.

"National Volunteers’ Week is a chance to celebrate their achievements and recognise just how vital they are to our organisation and local communities.”

Volunteers at the ATTFE community hub in the Idlewells Shopping Centre.

Andy Demetri, a volunteer for just over a year, said: “I volunteer four days a week at different locations with ATTFE.

"I totally enjoy supporting people less fortunate than yourself and at the same time enjoy meeting and helping people.”

Andy is also a volunteer in the local MENCAP shop, working on the tills, purchasing clothes and helping with deliveries as well

Gill Holmes and Peter Walker, who volunteer at the Sherwood Observatory Café said: “We started at the café about 18 months ago when it opened.

"We love putting something very rewarding back into the community.”

Before this Peter volunteered at Ollerton food bank, which Gill now manages.

During the week, the college saw various guests make an appearance including Alex Ross of Pretty Heavy Lifters talk about empowerment and mindset with a meditation session and three Nottinghamshire Police students discuss their new roles as they embark in becoming police officers.

Wednesday evening at Archway House in Kirklington saw various civic dignitaries and guests come together for a special rural event where Lord‑Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Veronica Pickering MBS HAC, thanked volunteers across the county and in particular ATTFE College catering students and volunteers who prepared a buffet for the evening.

The week concluded on Friday with a special celebration event at the Rendezvous Café in Sutton where volunteers were recognised and thanked for their hard work and dedication.